Princess Aiko of Japan eases 'exam stress' with a month-long absence from school

October 26, 2016

Princess Aiko of Japan hasn't been in school for a month, and Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko's granddaughter's extended absence is due to poor health. According to an Imperial Household Agency official, the 14-year-old princess's stress reached an all-time high with summer exams and preparations for a school athletic event, causing fatigue.

She has missed school since the end of September and earlier this month her mother Crown Princess Masako, who has battled anxiety, took her to hospital.

According to Japan Times, Nobutake Odano, grand master of the Crown Prince's household, said that the princess "does not have to keep to her bed all day long. She took a walk in a garden for a little while yesterday".

No particular health problem was found, but a date for Aiko's return to school hasn't been set either.

"According to her doctor, although her condition has been improving little by little, it may take some more time for recovery," the official added.

Her mom Crown Princess Masako has also suffered from anxiety

This is not the first time Princess Aiko has been off school. In 2010 the then-eight-year-old princess missed classes amid claims she was being bullied by boys in her school. Aiko also complained of stomach pains and deep anxiety.

Her mother Masako, 52, was diagnosed with a stress-induced adjustment disorder, also known as situational depression, in 2004. Several reports claimed that the crown princess felt under pressure to produce a male heir.

Last year on her 52nd birthday, she reflected on her progress, writing in a statement: "Taking care of my health, I have tried to fulfil my public and private duties as much as possible this year. With the help of people around me, I would like to continue making efforts to recover."

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